It is a humbling necessity to admit that, occasionally, even so-called seasoned observers of the beautiful game must concede to the fallibility of human judgment. After all, everybody makes mistakes. And, as the evocative lyrics of Michael Stipe once reminded a generation, "Everybody hurts". Within the ranks of the Blue Army, that hurt has lately been compounded by a cynical narrative (one this very outlet helped propagate) suggesting that Patson Daka had already checked out of the King Power departure lounge.
The Zambian international evidently maintains a profound sense of unfinished business with Leicester City. A (presumed) desire to ensure his legacy is not one of a quiet retreat but of a thunderous reassertion of his value.
The striker's brace against Preston North End on Friday was a masterclass in professional pride; a well-taken double that served as an exquisite rebuttal to those who questioned his heart (this writer being one). These were not the goals of a distracted man: they were the actions of a centre forward who cares about the circumstances of his tenure and coming farewell.
Patson Daka around the world and back to Leicester City
​Perhaps most astounding factor here was the physical odyssey Daka endured just to grace the turf. Manager Gary Rowett detailed a travel itinerary that would have broken a lesser resolve: a grueling trek from Argentina to Chile, onwards to Paris and finally to England.
"Pato, to say that he’s been on a flight from Argentina to Chile, Chile to Paris, Paris to England, then in a car to the training ground and training yesterday morning, then to play with that much energy, it’s quite outstanding to be honest.Rowett - Leicestershire Live
“It feels strange to have an international break and play on the Friday, because it asks a lot of the players doing those sorts of trips."
To navigate such a labyrinthine journey across continents and then immediately lead the LCFC attack speaks to an honorable level of dedication. While the ultimate result against the Lilywhites remained a disappointment, Daka's unwavering industry and clinical finishing proved that while his feet may be destined for elsewhere, his soul remains presently and firmly committed to the East Midlands.